Skateboard vs cruiser

When we talk about a skateboard vs. cruiser, both come with 4 wheels, a deck, and trucks. But, the question that comes to mind is whether or not the two are the same. What is the real distinction between skateboard vs. cruiser? To tell you the truth, there are rather some variations among both. As long as you’re a beginner or a seasoned skateboarder, it’s important to know what distinguishes a skateboard from a cruiser.

After skating through both I realized that the basic variation between skateboard and Cruiser is not merely their shape and size. It’s a diverse skate genre that both boards are perfect for.

The main difference between a skateboard and a cruiser is the size and shape along with the use. A skateboard is 30-32 inches long with 7-9 inches in width while a cruiser is smarter, narrower, and has a tail-shaped board. Additionally, Skateboards are for precise tricks, while cruisers are accessible and utilized for short rides.

But worry not, regardless of what you go for, you will end up with an amazing skating experience! Let’s take a glance at both board types and understand the difference between skateboard vs Cruiser.

What is a skateboard?

A typical skateboard comes in the shape of a Popsicle that is generally used for stunts and basic skating. The diameter of the skateboard ranges from 7 to 9 inches. While the length of the skateboard ranges from 30 to 32 inches. Roadside skaters often choose narrower skateboards, whereas aerial and bowl skating lovers prefer broader boards. These boards have a unique form with a curved tip for springing. Also, the kick tailboard is meant for rotating the board. Original skateboards are designed for skating over handrails, corner grinding, and performing spins.

Skateboards, unlike cruisers, are not used for movement or travel purposes. Doing so is feasible, but with smoother, and larger wheels, anyone can convert a skateboard to a cruiser. Frankly, I tried converting my skateboard into a cruiser and enjoyed it. But it involved considerably additional energy than cruisers.

What is a Cruiser?

Cruisers are typically designed for traveling or simply riding around in leisure. Yet this skateboard allows possible movement around with convenience. Normally cruisers have a level surface, but several cruisers are built with a concave shape and raised tail. This enables you to swiftly jump on and off slopes or fix the board while riding.

Cruisers exist in a wide range of forms and sizes. Perhaps a penny-shaped board qualifies as a cruiser as well. Cruisers are often taller than conventional skateboards. They offer stability and ease while providing fast movement. Cruisers, however, are not built for downhill riding and aren’t well-suited to carving. In contrast to standard skateboards, they are larger.

Skateboard vs. Cruiser, Which one to go for?

Standard skateboards are best for those who prefer skating in skate parks and city streets. You can easily go for tricks, like grinds, flips, and jumps. They’ve primarily utilized tricks and therefore are not designed for cruising or rapid downhill racing.  

Cruisers are intended to provide maximum cruising efficiency and achieve all of the vital elements within one single deck.

Cruisers offer you to skate with ease and faster while still performing tricks. They are highly advised for traveling or simply skating around! But there are other variations between both. Some of the few are:

Deviation in decks

Popsicle-like Skateboard decks usually come 27-32 inches in length. In addition, these decks are 7.5-9 inches in width. The best skateboard being narrower allows ideal speed to carry out grinds, flips, slides, tricks, and other styles! Skateboard decks likewise are designed symmetrically. They have a kicktail and nose for enabling skaters to conduct Ollie pop, kick turns, and Nollie kickflip.

On the other hand, Cruiser decks are typically constructed from similar stuff as basic skateboards. There may be some varieties that are constructed of vinyl or bamboo. These both are quite light in weight and ideal for cruising and traveling throughout the city. You can see Cruisers featuring a straight design with a straight kicktail and nose. This helps in carrying out tricks like a manual, Ollie, and more.

Deviation in trucks

The trucks of a skateboard are normally 139-159cm in width. This is determined by the size of the board’s deck. These trucks are best for rails, ledges, grinding, and coping.

The trucks on cruisers are normally relatively similar in size to that on ordinary skateboards. However, we suggest frequently unfastening them for easier twisting and shaping.

Deviation in wheels

Mostly every form of skateboard employs urethane wheels. Popsicle skateboards feature wheels composed of a tougher urethane composition that glides more effortlessly on flat surfaces. The distinction is in overall diameter which ranges between 50-60mm.

Cruiser skateboards commonly have 50mm to 65mm wheels that are close in size to normal skateboard wheels. Cruiser skateboard wheels, however, are lighter, broader, and better in grip than street skateboard wheels. This results in gentler, calmer, and nice cruising.

Hardware and bearings

The bearings and hardware featured by every skateboard and Cruiser are alike.  The hardware screws that provide attachment of the trucks to the board may vary in length. Further, the kingpin and axle screws on skateboard trucks are similar in size on each skateboard and Cruiser.

How to select the board

You may be contemplating which board is suitable for you. After you have a general idea of the changes in the trucks, deck, and wheels, it is essential to decide on your skateboard or Cruiser. Let’s try to simplify it further for you.

Are you willing to learn how to flip, shred skateparks and grind rails to become a professional?

If yes, then a classic skateboard is definitely the best option for you. In comparison to cruisers, the skill set is a little stiffer, but once you know how to handle a skateboard, you know anything. Maybe not that troublesome penny boards, but I still have a hard time riding smaller boards.

Are you ready to perform stunts now and then, but mainly just cruise across the city? 

If yes, a cruiser is most likely your best bet. Cruiser’s mobility will assist you in dodging obstructions, automobiles, and individuals. If you live in a neighborhood with slopes and hillsides, you must maintain your speed. But if you go overly fast on a cruiser, it gets unsteady and may begin shaking.

Conclusion

To summarize, I decided to put forward this article for beginners and other skaters to learn the distinctions between a skateboard and a cruiser. For those who already have some skill and are ready to commence doing tricks, a basic skateboard may be the best to choose. They offer great maneuverability that will assist you in avoiding obstructions, automobiles, and individuals. However, if you don’t really prefer skating, a cruiser is good for you. It is best for those who just want to get around town conveniently without riding a bike. I hope my article helps you discover the difference between skateboards vs. cruisers! If you still are confused, leave a comment to let us know your query!

Frequently asked questions

What type of truck is used on cruisers and skateboards?

Ans: Skateboards and cruisers commonly use Traditional Kingpin Trucks (TKPs). These are built closer to the surface and are lighter in weight. Also, Reverse Kingpin Trucks (RKPs) are mostly seen on longboards for stability and balance.

Is there any mini-cruiser?

Ans: Yes, the sub-group Mini cruisers are small for ease and convenience. They’re often constructed of ultra-light components. Mini cruisers are popular with riders who demand sharper bending and diving capabilities. Also, these are preferred among beginners and advanced riders looking for great handling.

Are there any similar points in skateboarding and cruisers?

Ans: Even though the structure and components differ, they all feature comparable characteristics. When it comes to riding technique, the principles are alike.